Randle had been a restricted free agent but the Lakers renounced his rights in early July. Following the move, Randle spoke with the New Orleans coaching staff about potentially joining their team.

Randle told The Times-Picayune he talked to Davis after his initial conversation with the Pelicans. Davis then called him three more times to “make sure he wasn't going anywhere else.”

Randle: "For him to see me fitting well into that plan and a part of that future, it means a lot. With that comes a lot of responsibility. Like I told him, I'll be on the frontline with him every game. You're not gonna have to worry about me bringing my hard hat." https://t.co/1mOR2VBiZO